Softronic from Romania will provide locomotives to RS Lease Slovakia
In a significant move towards the modernization of railway infrastructure and fleets across Europe, Romanian company Softronic Craiova has delivered TransMontana locomotives to various European operators. This trend, reflected in the contract between Softronic Craiova and RS Lease Slovakia, is part of a broader European movement towards sustainable, technologically advanced, and energy-efficient rail systems.
The TransMontana locomotives, designed for heavy freight transport, have been delivered to diverse European companies, including Deutsche Bahn, CER Cargo Holding, Green Cargo (Sweden's state railway operator), and DB Cargo Romania (a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn). The delivery of these six-axle electric locomotives to companies operating in Central Europe, Hungary, and Sweden highlights Softronic Craiova's international reach.
The current trend in European rail projects is focused on reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption. Advanced traction systems such as silicon carbide (SiC) power modules and regenerative braking, which can reduce energy use by up to 30%, are being introduced. Mitsubishi Electric's decade-long contracts to supply traction systems for hundreds of new trains exemplify this shift towards greener fleets.
Modern fleets are also being equipped with automation, real-time tracking, and smart logistics systems, enhancing the efficiency, safety, and reliability of rail services. Major investments, often supported by EU funding, are expanding high-speed rail corridors, increasing capacity, and improving cross-border connectivity.
Cross-border leasing and modernization contracts, like the one between Softronic Craiova and RS Lease Slovakia, are common in this context. These agreements enable operators to enhance service quality while managing investment costs efficiently. The contract with RS Lease is a step forward in the development of Softronic Craiova's business and a proof of the growing interest from companies that want to invest in sustainable, efficient, and digital transport solutions.
The TransMontana locomotives can be adapted to other types of rail services, making them versatile additions to European rail networks. The delivery of the locomotives is scheduled for the first half of 2026, marking another milestone in the modernization of European railway infrastructure and fleets.
Softronic Craiova, through the delivery of TransMontana locomotives, has expanded its reach to companies in various sectors within Europe, such as finance (Deutsche Bahn), transportation (CER Cargo Holding and DB Cargo Romania), and the aerospace industry (Green Cargo). In line with the European Union's focus on greener and more efficient rail systems, modern fleet advancements include automation, real-time tracking, and energy-efficient technology like regenerative braking, as demonstrated by Mitsubishi Electric's traction system contracts.
